Understanding UV Disinfection: The Science Behind The Savings
DNA
Now more than ever, energy savings and workforce productivity are a top priority for facility managers, superintendents, and maintenance directors. The recent pandemic made it clear that the air we breathe can significantly impact our health and well-being, but it also highlighted a technology that can deliver air quality with tremendous savings potential. That technology is UV disinfection. UV disinfection is an effective way to kill viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind Safe Air UV disinfection and how it can benefit your facility.
HOW DOES UV DISINFECTION WORK?
“In a nutshell” - UV disinfection uses UV-C light, which has a wavelength between 200 and 280 nanometers. This wavelength is highly effective at penetrating the outer shell of microorganisms and destroying their DNA. When the DNA is destroyed, the microorganisms are unable to replicate and survive. With reliable UV bulbs, there are no byproducts like ozone, ions, or aldehydes like other technologies. This makes SAFE AIR UV disinfection an excellent way to reduce the spread of airborne diseases in a facility.
LET’S GET TECHNICAL.
Germicidal UV light disables the DNA or RNA of pathogens by disrupting their genetic
material. Here's how it works:
Absorption of UV light: When germicidal UV light (specifically UV-C) strikes a microorganism, the DNA or RNA within the cell absorbs the energy from the light.
Formation of thymine dimers: The energy absorbed by the DNA or RNA can cause adjacent thymine bases (nucleotides) to become bonded together, forming a dimer.
Interference with replication: When the microorganism attempts to replicate its DNA or RNA, the presence of thymine dimers prevents the replication process from proceeding normally. This is because the replication enzymes cannot accurately copy the damaged DNA or RNA sequence.
Cell death: As a result of the disrupted replication, the microorganism is unable to reproduce and eventually dies.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF UV DISINFECTION?
UV disinfection has several benefits that make it an attractive option for facility managers.
Firstly, it is a non-chemical solution, so it does not require the use of harmful and expensive chemicals that can damage surfaces or harm the environment.
Secondly, it is a cost-effective solution, as it does not require the use of consumables or ongoing maintenance other than a light bulb. A good UV bulb should last 2 years or longer, and savings from improved attendance and productivity, with improved HVAC maintenance and energy savings dwarf the cost of a light bulb!
Thirdly, it is a safe solution, as it does not produce harmful ozone or other byproducts. Properly designed systems will also have safety precautions like motion sensors, door switches, and view ports to prevent occupant eye and skin exposure.
Lastly, it is an easy-to-install solution, as it can be integrated into existing HVAC systems or installed as standalone units in high-risk areas. We offer turnkey solutions, but we’re also happy to educate and train your team instead!
HOW CAN UV DISINFECTION IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY?
UV disinfection can significantly improve indoor air quality by reducing the number of pathogens in the air that can cause illnesses. Each pathogen is uniquely susceptible to UV so this simply becomes a math problem, no matter whether your target pathogen is mold, listeria, influenza, or Coronavirus.
UV is particularly effective in high-risk areas such as hospitals, healthcare facilities, and schools. In these environments, UV disinfection can help prevent the spread of airborne infections of all kinds. One Duke study showed a 93% reduction in HAIs in the OR environment!
UV disinfection can also benefit other environments such as offices, commercial buildings, and public transportation systems, by removing distracting odors and allergens, and improving occupant comfort
These valuable benefits will help draw people to your organization. It will help keep them there safely, and perform at the best!
WHAT ARE THE BEST PRACTICES FOR UV DISINFECTION?
To ensure the effective use of UV disinfection, it is essential to follow best practices.
First, we should have a discovery call to determine your goals. UV isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution. We take great care to make sure you get the type of system that will meet your needs. We’ll tailor a solution just for you according to ASHRAE, CDC, NALMCO and other industry standards, not some cookie-cutter formula.
Second, it is important to use the correct type of UV-C light to ensure maximum effectiveness. SAFE AIR UV will guide you to ensure that you are using the precise UV-C light application for your specific need.
Lastly, it is important to know that we are available long after the sale to offer guidance, additional analysis, and support.
In Conclusion, UV disinfection is a powerful tool for improving your bottom line through energy savings and employee productivity – on top of the well-known benefits to indoor air quality and reducing the spread of airborne diseases. By utilizing this technology, facility managers, principals, superintendents, and maintenance supervisors can provide a safer and healthier environment for their occupants.
Contact SAFE AIR UV today to determine the best solution for your specific needs.
